Comedic documentaries existed, but were scarce until Christopher Guest took the reins with WAITING FOR GUFFMAN. By directing, co-writing & starring in the film, Guest assembled a company of actors & manner of heartfelt storytelling. And twenty-five years post-release, GUFFMAN’s “comedy is reality, but one step further” philosophy has become one of the most popular genres.   **Discussions include** Brief career history of Christopher Guest from the ‘70s to GUFFMAN; Guest’s relationship & creation process with writing partner, Eugene Levy; writing & shooting for a musical; inspirations for the story, style of comedy, creating a small town feel with universal relatability; use of improvisation, purposeful casting, character development; structure, editing process, production details, reception & release; discussion of script changes, omitted scenes, favorite moments & ranking our favorite of Guest’s films with this comedy troupe. WAITING FOR GUFFMAN (1996) Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Fred Willard, Parker Posey, Bob Balaban. Directed by Christopher Guest.   ***Picks of the Week*** —Lindsay’s Pick: FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION (2006) Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Parker Posey, Christopher Moynihan, Harry Shearer, plus all the usual suspects. Directed by Christopher Guest. —Justin’s Pick: A MIGHTY WIND (2003) Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Harry Shearer, Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, plus all the usual suspects. Directed by Christopher Guest.   ***MurrayMoment*** Billy & Christopher Guest’s time working on the National Lampoon Radio Hour, focusing on two recorded pieces, one featuring GUFFMAN player & Murray brother, Brian Doyle Murray.   ***Final Thoughts on WAITING FOR GUFFMAN.***   Next Episode: BEVERLY HILLS COP!   Please rate, review & subscribe on your podcast platform of choice. Complete Episode Archive, Videos & Store: www.dontpushpausepodcast.com Facebook @dontpushpause Instagram @dontpushpausepodcast Twitter @dontpushpause Subscribe on YouTube, Don’t Push Pause Podcast Email us: [email protected]   Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders Be Kind and Rewatch! // August 3, 2021